AutoCodes – Generic – P0231

P0231 Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) provides ignition positive voltage to the coil side of the fuel pump relay. Common causes include Blown Fuel Pump fuse, Open Fuel Pump Monitor Circuit, Faulty Fuel Pump Relay. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0231 indicates Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Blown Fuel Pump fuse, Open Fuel Pump Monitor Circuit, Faulty Fuel Pump Relay.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 30,982

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 13, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0231 Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) provides ignition positive voltage to the coil side of the fuel pump relay. When the ignition switch is first turned ON, the ECM energizes the fuel pump relay, which applies power to the fuel pump. The ECM enables the fuel pump relay as long as the engine is cranking or running, and crankshaft reference pulses are received. If no crankshaft reference pulses are received, the ECM de-energizes the fuel pump relay after 2 seconds. The ECM monitors the voltage on the fuel pump relay control circuit.

OBDII Code P0231 - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0231 Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0231?

Blown Fuel Pump fuse
Open Fuel Pump Monitor Circuit
Faulty Fuel Pump Relay
Damaged Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0231?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0231 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0231 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0231 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0231 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P0231 Chevrolet — Fuel Pump Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0231 Ford — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low
P0231 GMC — Fuel Pump Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0231 Hyundai — Electric Fuel Pump Relay Open Or Short Circuit
P0231 KIA — Electric Fuel Pump Relay Open or Short Circuit
P0231 Lincoln — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low
P0231 Mazda — Low Open Or Short Circuit In The Fuel Pump Primary Circuit
P0231 Mercedes-Benz — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low
P0231 Mercury — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low
P0231 Volkswagen — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.